The Ministry of Health has revealed plans to expand a pilot project enabling 11 additional pharmacies to conduct testing for strep throat and ear infections. This initiative, which was initially introduced in January, has now completed official training, allowing nine pharmacies to offer comprehensive strep throat testing. By January 2026, two more pharmacies will join the program, bringing the total number of testing locations in the province to 22.
Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill unveiled this expansion at a pharmacy in Warman, Saskatchewan, emphasizing the convenience and accessibility it provides to residents. Pharmacists at these accredited locations have undergone specialized training to assess symptoms, perform rapid strep throat tests, and recommend appropriate treatment options, including prescribing medications. In addition to strep throat testing, all accredited pharmacies can also test for ear infections, while 24 other pharmacies are currently limited to ear infection testing only.
Cockrill highlighted that Saskatchewan pharmacists were initially authorized to prescribe for minor ailments in 2012, starting with three conditions and expanding to over 31 minor ailments over time. He emphasized the importance of leveraging the expertise and accessibility of pharmacists to enhance healthcare options and improve patient access to care.
The newly added pharmacies offering strep testing are situated in various cities, including Regina, Saskatoon, Warman, Weyburn, Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Emerald Park, and Swift Current. Meanwhile, pharmacies already on the strep testing list are located in Biggar, Foam Lake, Humboldt, Kindersley, Meadow Lake, Melfort, Outlook, Stoughton, and Yorkton.
Saskatchewan boasts nearly 1,300 practicing pharmacists across over 430 licensed community pharmacies. Since the inception of the project, over 3,000 individuals have undergone strep throat testing, with more than 1,000 being evaluated for suspected ear infections. This initiative aims to enhance healthcare accessibility and options for residents across the province.